Evaluating the Impact of a Holistic, Community-Driven, Physical Activity-Based Wellness Program for Indigenous Women using Nominal Group Technique

Objective
 Indigenous women experience structural barriers to wellness rooted in colonialism and related socio-political processes, making participation physical activity access balanced nutrition challenging. In response, a holistic program was developed Lloydminster, Alberta, multiple iterations have since been completed urban rural (including reserve) settings Canada: Onion Lake Cree Nation, Lloydminster Calgary. The includes activity, education, bridging local healthcare support sharing circles facilitate reflection. This article collates three years of qualitative data between programs answer the question: “What does do?”
 
 Methods
 Between 2017 2019, twenty-four participants, four facilitators community champions post-program interviews. A mixed-methods, qualitative, two-part analysis involving thematic transcripts followed by structured consensus-building approach called nominal group technique (NGT).
 Results
 Collaborative analyses revealed that enables: 1) self-actualization through collective effort – development knowledge, skills, beliefs, behaviours needed manage one’s own health, 2) improved personal wellness, 3) social cultural supports. Cultural relevancy safety were identified as key elements context supported these changes.
 Conclusion
 for demonstrates positive impacts on health well-being participants. Benefits naturally extend participant families well communities involved capacity building. environment program, not simply education resources offered within it, also contributes this impact.